Is the 2021 Volvo XC90 the ULTIMATE midsize luxury SUV to BUY?

The XC90 is Volvo's answer to an SUV to go up against the other premium Euro brands. Under the hood is this Recharge T8 Inscription 2.0L supercharged & turbocharged engine mated to electric motors to produce a combined 400HP. You have an 8-speed automatic and getting power to the ground is an E-AWD system. Since this XC90 is a plug-in electric hybrid you are getting some major fuel efficiency. On the outside you will find Volvo's signature styling along with optional wheels. On the inside you will be welcomed to a well laid out interior. Is the 2021 Volvo XC90 the ULTIMATE midsize luxury SUV to BUY?
**Please click the link to get your Raiti's Rides Merch!
Is the 2021 Volvo XC90 the ULTIMATE midsize luxury SUV to BUY?

[@jzy0104]

I like it when you say “midsize euro suv”. Here in Euro, this is one of the biggest SUVs. Midsize is XC60.

[@nishuozenmeban]

Det är sant!

[@Azzazpimp]

A midsize SUV from a European manufacturer

[@ericrooney4468]

Yeah it's a big car

[@littledovecitydust]

I agree. It's certainly more than mid-size.

[@alh06]

@@littledovecitydust No it’s quite literally midsized in the US market

[@jhk88rph]

I can tell whenever Lori works the camera because you’re more comedic! I picture Lori rolling her eyes! Thanks Lori!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Jim! We really appreciate your support!

[@thomasalagna9354]

My son and his wife were interested in 2021 Volvo XC 90 T6. I showed them your review today, they loved it. Thanks Joe, this review it helped them select the Volvo XC90. They tested it last weekend, and your review made the difference. They are picking it up this Saturday.

[@RaitisRides]

That is so wonderful Thomas! Congrats!

[@sampitts5734]

70k is a hard pill to swallow for a 4 cylinder imo, even if it is powerful. Still a stylish and sleek SUV though! Awesome one Joe!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. This is a Plug-in hybrid which has efficiency.

[@zacharygryn7959]

@@RaitisRides Grandpa just got a XC60 hybrid and with a light foot he is pulling over 50 mpg. I can't wait to give it a spin and actually use some gas too!

[@RaitisRides]

@@zacharygryn7959 That is so awesome!

[@robertoling7708]

Sam P It’s a family confortable SUV. Who cares about engine sound? Why a luxury car must be a gas guzzler?

[@jordanahamed4316]

Bruh a hybrid 4 cylinder that has 400HP is a hard pill to swallow. It's impressive.

[@kelliegrase4658]

“If you’re used to 9 inches...” Most of the women driving these have never had 9 inches.

[@vbelbel490]

BOSS

[@RaitisRides]

LOL!

[@RaitisRides]

@@vbelbel490 😉👍🏻

[@jordans.2665]

They certainly have, but not from their husbands.

[@gaara4667]

Because 4 is enough

[@tdmcdonald84]

joe, i love how twinkie storage is a crucial part of you reviews👍🏾

[@RaitisRides]

You are a smart man Tremaine.

[@ahome8089]

Got my first Volvo a few months ago, 2020 V90 CC, and love it!

[@karlglemaud699]

The fabric is optional on the XC90, and the comfort is amazing. I've tested one myself, and i have to say that the XC90 is one of a kind. Not only savings on gas mileage, quiet cabin, luxury interior, safety, and smooth ride, but the uniqueness in the design and usability. Who would of thought a 4 cylinder could offer the drive and capability of an 8. Awesome vehicle and thank you for the review.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing that great input from your experience!

[@richardc.4448]

I’ve been waiting so long for this review

[@dmcvitti]

Loving these 3-row SUV videos! I just bought a new vehicle after narrowing down my search through your reviews. Lots of nice vehicles out there. Keep up the good work!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Dave! What did you get?

[@dmcvitti]

@@RaitisRides We got a Hyundai Palisade. Lots of space to grow into, adaptive cruise/highway assist was the best we tried and a great second row experience for the family!

[@remander3873]

My wife just got a 2021 XC90 T6 Inscription. It's so comfortable! Volvo makes amazing seats. Not a hybrid, but the turbo/supercharged 4 cylinder is a great engine.

[@RaitisRides]

Congrats! Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@toddwatkins9666]

Like the representation for NJ with the dealer plate!!! 🤣🤣

[@MrVikingmead]

Memory seating for the passenger. One thing I wish my Ford would include. Wife would love that. Such a little feature, but fantastic tool to keep the other half happy.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing those great points!

[@javil1803]

You are rocking Joe!!! Keep up the good work

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks brother! I m so glad that you are here!

[@BXTS]

Got this car about a month ago, I love it!

[@RaitisRides]

Congrats!

[@mattz5770]

Joe, I think the wool material on the seats is the reason they are not ventilated. You have to have perforations for the air to come through and you can’t perforate the wool like you can leather.

[@DaneKurb]

I like the one with the refrigerator in the back where you can kick back in the second row. I'm going to agree with your zonks on this one.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Mark for letting me share it with you!

[@rylama]

Raiti after analysis I think you are the best

[@mariar984]

I’ve been driving the XC40 Volvo R design and it’s incredibly smooth to drive! You didn’t mention all the technology of this car, it basically drives itself.

[@vbelbel490]

Joe makes a 4 banger feel like a Dodge Viper. RAW!!!

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very awesome! Thanks for being so great!

[@spdrcerjt]

Super entertaining! I love the commentary. You crack me up!! 😆

[@angelc498]

I thought it was faster from 0 to 60 mph. I saw on others KZbin channels, numbers around 5 seconds flat to 60 mph for the T8 model. As always, excellent content and nicely detailed review from your channel.

[@divinityy7425]

You are on a roll joe keep it going

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for saying that! I sure will!

[@steveoommen6269]

Great review!

[@kciresmith496]

Very Concise but detailed car review. Not boring and price revealed right away. Not boring

[@RaitisRides]

I really appreciate that Erick!

[@ivanlowjones]

Great review Joe. I love my 2017 Volvo XC90 T6 R-Design.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for saying that and sharing your ownership experience!

[@chiemekaa]

Best-looking and SUV couldn't have been better paired! And it's not just the outside. Joe btw, the 0-60 time is actually less than 5 sec for the T8 under 6 sec for the T6. Keep up the great work.

[@forol09]

As usual awesome review 😁

[@ojhaybuckson256]

Joe,keep em coming🔥

[@RaitisRides]

You got it man!

[@user-mu9oc3ru6m]

Volvo is one of the leading brands👍🏻

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you like this one.

[@autonewstv86]

I have an XC70 and I noticed when off-roading with these vehicles there is a delay before they fully engaged but you have to keep on the gas

[@RaitisRides]

That is crazy! Thanks for sharing that great input!

[@hastensavoir7782]

@Joaquin Donald it ain’t love if there’s no trust.

[@jackyong815]

As a Mainland Chinese, I'm super proud to know Volvo is now owned by one of world's largest car makers based in our great nation of China. #MadeInChina2025 #BeltAndRoad 🇨🇳

[@hastensavoir7782]

@@jackyong815 made in China is something you can’t be particularly proud of. It’s merely Assembled not Made from the ground up.

[@123OGNIAN]

@@hastensavoir7782 Didnt knew china had its hands on it.Specially a copy cat company like Gelee.Definitely removing the volvo brand of my list!

[@johnperrin8788]

Awesome review. Thank you. I’m days away from buying one of these.

[@willsperfslage571]

Have a good Christmas joe and great video

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Will! Same to you and yours!

[@AinsOalGown21]

Nice review man your comedy and enthusiasm have made me a new suscriber

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for saying that and joining the Raiti's Rides family!

[@robertoling7708]

My dad has a 2018 T6 Inscription. Before purchased it, he was looking for an Audi Q7 because he was afraid of the bad reliability reputation of Volvo. But my mom didn’t like the exterior styling of the Q7, she convinced him to go with the Volvo. He finally had a great deal for one and we love it!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing that great input from their ownership experience!

[@seito1276]

Love, love, love the XC90. I have the S60 and love that one as well. You should review the S60 and give us your thoughts on it.

[@harlemhomme]

great video

[@chepo1956]

Awesome review Joe. Jose from Puerto RIco here. You know what I'd love to see? Your hands on a Lamborghini URUS Suv! That'll make my day man!

[@RaitisRides]

Hey Jose! Thanks for taking the time to say that and for your support! I am working on getting one of those.

[@GlamBammers]

Great review

[@dudeseriously57]

I have a 2019 XC90 T6 Inscription. Best kept secret on the road with regard to style, ride and technology.

[@carlosolivos3724]

I’m dying about the Costco/charmin comment bro! Just got a XC90 here and was thinking about Costco as well. LOL

[@limkokzhang8136]

Finally u review xc90 that's good one

[@RaitisRides]

I hope it was worth the wait!

[@thepeoplespelicansalinas5218]

I like the non iPad style info screen flanked by the air vents

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you!

[@PurposeTravel]

Absolutely stunning.

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you like this one.

[@joskjj3625]

Keep up the good work joe👍

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Brother! You are the man!

[@joskjj3625]

@@RaitisRides no problem 👍

[@kiranmudumbi455]

Hey Joe.. excellent review.. could you do a 2022 Acura MDX vs 2021 Volvo XC 90 Inscription ? going back and forth between these two..

[@Noah-ui1iu]

I am a fan when it comes to new Volvos. I always love when someone one ways one to us in my rental company. I got my mom to test drive a used Inscription a few months ago while she was getting an oil change across the street from the Volvo dealer and she loved it other than thinking the engine didn't have much character. The only thing I can say I don't like and don't get is why they take away the fog lights on the T8.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for letting me share them with you Noah!

[@danielcorry4136]

I heard the fog light space is needed for an additional cooling system.

[@skylerrodriguez7915]

Love the front row the screen and the dash are very nice I do have to zonk that phone charger doesn’t look like it will keep the phone from sliding and the no cool seats and the horrible third row lol great job you and Laurie yet again thank you and God bless would you ever get this suv Raiti

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Nicholas!

[@adama047]

That's a really nice SUV! Mpg's, and horsepower? Where do I sign up? Lol, could do without that 3rd row in a mid-size, though. Loving the angles you're getting in the vids, Lori! Thanks for another stellar review, Joe!

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you are digging this one Adam!

[@brianharris6467]

Have a 2017 XC90 T6 R-Design Polestar, I do agree it's time for a refresh, but it's still the best all around vehicle I've owned. And looking at how a lotta other auto makers have borrowed from the xc90 's design (telluride, palisade, Cadillac XT6), it's not outdated.

[@steverousseau3153]

Hey, r u able 2do a video on the xc60 R design or the xc60 polestar? Thx really like your videos. Keep doing a good job!

[@RaitisRides]

I will try to get that together for you!

[@paulacoleman5473]

Need this

[@rayleung7668]

I have a 2018 XC90. Joe, you didn't show 2 items,which I think it is important for others to know. 1: you didn't show the XC90 has a 360-degree view backup camera when you put in reverse gear. 2: the third row seats don't have a strap for pulling them back up when they are folded so it is not convenient as the competitors. It is still a nice review, keep it up.thanks

[@daydiamond9131]

I feel him on the churros though!

[@1NG_]

A proper and complete AWD SUV review should ideally include some soft offroading though I'm aware that it'll probably spend 90% of its time on tarmac and shopping mall parking. Awesome review, bar that offroading test review shortcoming

[@MichaelHauger08]

The XC90 Excellence Lounge Consule is the most expensive. The right passenger seat gets replaced by a big monitor and a legrest. It also has another touchscreen to control your heated seats, ventilated seats, and what not. It also has a rear refrigerator.

[@noway_josue28]

My mom had a brand new 04 xc90 t6 awd and it was amazing at that time lol. It was soo roomy and we never got stuck on the snow or mud. We made countless road trips but sadly, a semi truck ran the red light and took us out. Saved us all though. R.I.P volvy.

[@RaitisRides]

I am sorry to hear about that situation.

[@A4allroads]

I love Volvo’s fit and finish it’s really clean. Think there the only company doing supercharger, turbocharge and electric. I heard there trying to go full electric in the future. Joe try to get a polestar model. Thanks joe!

[@RaitisRides]

I am working on tracking one down.

[@p_enta5012]

I LOVE this suv. It's honestly one of the last truly beautiful SUVs on the market. I'm seriously considering getting a new XC90 T8. Would totally recommend this car to anyone. Great review joe!

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you are liking this one.

[@p_enta5012]

@@bradleyscarreviews The x5 is boring. the Gv80 is really nice and would be my second ick behind this cause this has the brand name and the simple design.

[@p_enta5012]

@@bradleyscarreviews Yeah but the design is too cluttered and doenst have the brand name like volvo or the powertrains. again my second choice would be the gv80.

[@benjaminsmith2287]

I just think it's too old a design now. Volvo is going to replace it next year with an all-new design. It's very, very elegant but I think it shows its age in some ways.

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

My dream Volvo SUV!! Awesome job Joe.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks brother for letting me bring it to you.

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

@@RaitisRides You're welcome Joe.

[@wcalhoun10]

Great job Lori/Laurie =)

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for showing Lori some love!

[@stellantistom6881]

What up Joe? Haven't seen a Volvo video for a while!

[@RaitisRides]

Hey big Tom! I thought it was time again.

[@stellantistom6881]

@@RaitisRides ;D

[@leighgarry1343]

@@RaitisRides Can you do the XC60 T5 2021 next? Thanks

[@cjsr20det]

Not bad at all! This for my family's daily, then the Civic Type-R for the weekend!..or my daily also haha

[@RaitisRides]

I like the way you think!

[@varunmenon474]

Late to the comments section. I recently traded in my 2016 Explorer sport for a 2018 XC90. I loved the Explorer sport for its powerful engine and performance but it was dated. The XC90 can perform in the right drive mode, I love the syling and design but what took my by surprise was the comfort. This car is on the next level of comfort. I've driven plenty of cars luxury and non-luxury but none of them came close to this in terms of comfort. They are also great bargains in the CPO market.

[@dallen6793]

Love this suv 👍

[@Haseeb2k08]

Midsize! Here in the UK it's one of the bigger options of choice

[@coolcarreviews0129]

My friend has a 2018 and man are these nice!

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very right about that!

[@coolcarreviews0129]

Hope you are having a great day Joe!

[@thomasferrarojr.9772]

They're very nice, but they're just too slow. I have a 2016. If you don't care about performance, they're a good vehicle.

[@TerryKashat]

I always wanted some Cappuccino cup holders.

[@masonabrahamson2585]

Color looks great on that model!

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you!

[@civacivic]

I agree, what color Is on that model?

[@masonabrahamson2585]

@@civacivic I believe it's the "Denim Blue" color.

[@MichaelA.2499]

Volvo is a very underrated brand! Some of the safest and most reliable cars on the market.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree!

[@LV426Survivor]

Bit early to say reliable with their newer models. These twin charged small engines look like a recipe for disaster.

[@ojhaybuckson256]

very true

[@Defy_Convention]

Yeah, a hybrid twin charged 4 cylinder powering a full size 3 row suv. It's the pinnacle of reliability and longevity. Sure looks nice though.

[@StuninRub]

The last time Volvo built a reliable car was over 20 years ago, now it's all trash.

[@enabulujames7066]

Just a few of these in Nigeria 🇳🇬🇳🇬🇳🇬 Luxury ride

[@hbob3583]

Thanks for the nice review- but you were doing 68mph on a road with 35mph limit- be safe!

[@joshharrison1160]

Nice review but you missed a very key point: If you get the 6-passenger version with captain's chairs, you have very easy access to the 3rd row. And, you have additional leg room in the center for both passengers. It makes all the difference in the world.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for that great info Josh!

[@bearclaws8755]

Not bad but clothes seats 😬 but that Volvo is not bad great job Lori on the camera 🎥 joe always great video’s 🇺🇸🦅👍🏻

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for being so supportive and letting us bring them to you!

[@mobbak]

Nice video joe, but I wish if you explained all the modern technologies that this Volvo has. Like for example does it has adaptive cruise control, 360 views, safety features, remote start, audio system, etc. Besides that, what are the main differences between the 2015 model tell now? Have they brought anything new? Because I can see that they are still using the same chase and same design. Also, how is it comparing with the competitors?

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one.

[@LS1007]

Very nice vehicle. I like the XC40 also. Being both turbo and supercharged is a concern on the life of the 4 cylinder. The grill badge with the “wings” plays homage to their history with airplanes. Not entirely true but actually it was a way to mount the center logo in the grill. Thanks for the review Joe. Well done! 👍🏻👍🏻🇺🇸

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for that great info Larry! Reliability is an important variable for sure.

[@benjaminsmith2287]

Volvo has been building the turbo/supercharged 4 cylinder for 2 generations of cars now. They started with the s60's of last generation. There are issues with some Volvo engines but it isn't the turbo/superchargers that are causing the issues.

[@13asingh]

Good review! Always detailed. Just one thing I really wanted to know about is if this vehicle has remote start or an app to turn on the ac/heat. Please let me know

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks! That is a great question.

[@angeliajackson6727]

Yes - remote start using the app.

[@browningchannel]

I think I read somewhere that ugly puffy engine cover is for pedestrian safety. Volvo puts it on all their engines now and it's suppose to cushion some if you hit a pedestrian and they bounce off the hood. Of course with this one, the engine is way down there, so who knows if it'd actually help. Great review though Joe, another killer job!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing that great info Shawn. I appreciate your support!

[@tuxedoblackcat1680]

If I wanted to do something with the Door Pockets, then I would say delete the area kind of under the door handles, and now the pockets are kind of large enough to fit maybe 4 Arizona Arnold Palmer Half & Half Iced Tea Lemonades.

[@RaitisRides]

Now we are talking!

[@naturalbeauty_abena1230]

I love volvos and their under statement style.and for the price, I would like to see less plastics in the interior. But boy...the Genesis GV80 and 70 is going to give these European brands a run for their money.

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very right!

[@benjaminsmith2287]

This is the last year for this Volvo from what I understand. Though, it's not clear. I do know the next-gen XC90 sized Volvo is scheduled to come out next year as a 2023 model. Volvo is going bold and making it only an EV. Since the GV80 and 70 are new designs, I'd wait until that next-gen is out to compare with Genesis new designs. The new Genesis cars have terrific style and apparently excellent quality as well.

[@buzzlight-year4824]

Telluride all the way joe. Nice review though😊

[@RaitisRides]

AGREED!

[@bannettfernandes2804]

Good review! Just a note, ventilated front seats are available but not for wool finish seats.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Bannett! It would be great if they could do that!

[@bannettfernandes2804]

@@RaitisRides anytime! Keep up the great job!

[@patp6835]

Just subscribed. Do you plan to test drive the XC60 ? Thank you 😊

[@joskjj3625]

Hey joe You should check out the savage geese taho video,they have twinkies

[@RaitisRides]

Imitation is the biggest form of flattery!

[@yes8032]

This Volvo is soo good looking very clean but yet luxurious

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you George!

[@chipperxavier1510]

I am sure Joe realizes those are exhaust FINISHERS incorporated into the bumper, not "true exhaust" - they are not directly connected to the exhaust system. I dislike this trend, but apparently many automakers are making exhausts in this fashion. Great Job, Mr. Raiti! - Chipper.

[@RaitisRides]

Yes you are correct sir! I rather have that than a fake exhaust like some other brands are doing. Thanks for your support!

[@jplay0426]

This suv is timeless

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one.

[@yes8032]

True

[@KuyaArbee]

Once you’ve actually driven a modern Volvo you wouldn’t understand! Their cars are serene!! Super relaxing! Love that they focus on luxury and comfort and not trying to bring Motorsport racing to public streets..... I love my Volvo XC40

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one.

[@KuyaArbee]

@@RaitisRides thank you for your awesome informative reviews!

[@benjaminsmith2287]

They are relaxing. At times, almost hypnotizing. No other car feels quite like them. Mercedes are good but they feel like power cars by comparison.

[@WattsTheFed]

Could you review the gasoline version of the 2021 Volvo XC40 Inscription T5 AWD? That's the vehicle I'd like to purchase by the end of summer this year.

[@antonehunter2538]

When you review all vehicle's can please let us know if the back seats recline this is very important for people with children

[@LxiEQ]

clicked on channel and i see the video was posted 1 minute ago. :)

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for being here!

[@asmranonymousgaming901]

Can't decide between this color and black

[@virkill3408]

That watch looks quite attractive joe, what is it ?

[@Irishmanbikes]

Joe, when are you going to test drive the Toyota RAV4 XSE Hybrid AWD?

[@RaitisRides]

As soon as I have access to one. Probably in the next couple weeks Dan.

[@ashikadevi-bowman9352]

HI , Raiti's Ride, Does this XC90 21 has the option of a booster seat? I've been a viewer of your channel for a while. Yes even tho you talk a lot. Lol. You are giving the best review of the vehicle you are doing the review of. You also have very good suggestions of storage capacity by referencing twinkies, M&M, chocolate milk, churros! 😂. Like watching your video's.

[@tsuyuasui8264]

“you can see the ant in that crack about to fall in that crack” *my dirty mind has interpreted that wrong* 🤣

[@Ford-Explorer606]

Great review Great car. This brand deserves more sales than it getting. What a pity that everyone goes with the german trio even though there are great alternatives like volvo. Ill take the volvo anyday over the german trio

[@mystictk4149]

They did a really good job with this.

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very right!

[@mystictk4149]

@@RaitisRides I do have a few zonks that’s all lol. I like it tho.

[@mariowhyte2816]

Man oh man oh man!!!! This Volvo is a piece of art Joe!!! My wife overall doesn't like Volvos...long story...lol but I think this might just change her mind!!! Nose to tail, inside and out it stands apart from the crowd!!! #RaitisRides #OnThrottle #ToTheDoorPanel #TwinkiesForDays #OnThrottleAgain #LoriGotAngles #CameraQueen #Zonkmeister #CrownVic #OnThrottleAllDay #IfYoureReadyImReady #Volvo #XC90

[@AbsoluteMdot]

The Maintenance on Volvos lord have mercy!!!

[@RaitisRides]

OUCH!